In Kancheepuram, Tamil Nadu, a hoarding displaying former adult film star Mia Khalifa’s image during a religious festival has sparked controversy. The hoarding appeared during the Aadi festival, which honors Goddess Amman (Parvati) at temples across Tamil Nadu.
According to India Today, the hoardings and festive lights at Nagathamman and Selliyamman temples in Kuruvimalai were part of the festival’s decorations. Among these, a hoarding featuring Mia Khalifa alongside the deities surprised many. The organizers had also included their own photos in an Aadhaar card-style format. The hoarding quickly went viral, prompting the police to remove it.
Mia Khalifa’s photo seen on a hoarding for the Aadi festival in Tamil Nadu’s Kancheepuram.
The local police were informed after which the hoarding was removed.#TamilNadu pic.twitter.com/fPPAIQa3F8
— Vani Mehrotra (@vani_mehrotra) August 8, 2024
Previously, during the Aadi Perukku festival at the Subramania Swamy Temple in Pasilikudai, a 50-foot Ferris wheel malfunctioned, tilting dangerously and causing panic. Reports from India Today indicate that the wheel had been constructed illegally. As it began to tilt, people on the ride were terrified. Authorities responded promptly, securing the area, disabling the ride, and rescuing those trapped.